Want to be successful in your career? The secret just may be in your smile! A sincere smile suggests you are self-assured and confident, traits that every true professional share. In an interview for Web MD Pamela McClain D.D.S. past president of the American Academy of Periodontology says that over the long-term, smiling can benefit your health, perception at work, social life and romantic status.
Smiling at customers makes them feel comfortable and welcome. In addition a sincere smile makes it easier for customers to put their trust in you and gives them a sense of confidence in your expertise. And smiling is SO easy and it makes you feel good to boot!
Of course happiness isn’t the only reason we smile, and not all smiles are created equal. There’s the angry smile, the embarrassed smile, and the I’m feeling uncomfortable smile to name a few. With so much at stake you would be wise to learn just what your grin is saying to others…and what your customer’s smiles are saying to you. Here’s what Health Works has to say about smile styles.
The jaw-drop smile – A big smile for a big personality. Used to win people over, this over-the-top open mouth style smile is often used by celebrities trying to draw positive impulses from their audience. It gives the impression of being playful and amusing.
The turn-away smile – Another smile used to win people over quickly is where you smile and quickly turn away. Many women use this smile without even thinking about it. Don’t use this smile at work. It suggests you are playful and creative, but juvenile and it is far too coy and flirty to be job-appropriate.
The soft closed-lip smile – another one to avoid at work, the soft closed lip smile which is often used by playful children…and politicians sends the message that you are holding back something and not sharing all the information that you have. Some people use the closed lip smile because they are embarrassed of their teeth, but the truth is life is much more difficult for people who choose not to show their teeth. If that’s you, see your dentist to see what they can do to help you feel more confident about your choppers.
The tight-lipped smile – when the lips are stretched without showing any teeth it indicates rejection, concealed secrets or not wanting to answer…good to know…
The sneer – We’ve all been subjected to a disrespectful sneer. It’s expression of contempt is obvious and it shows a complete lack of respect, caring and empathy.
The forced smile – This smile looks un-natural and feels phony. A smile is so much more than pulling back your lips to show your teeth…you have to FEEL a real smile. This kind of fake smile gives the impression that you don’t mean what you’re saying and evokes a response of strong dislike from others.
The genuine smile – Everyone’s favorite smile to receive! – This is the smile you get when you find something funny. It reaches your eyes, makes your whole face glow and makes other people want to smile right back at ya!